Larapinta Signature Walk

After breakfast, departure from camp leads to Section 10 of the Larapinta Trail. The stretch from Ormiston Gorge to the Finke River offers a longer day of exploring the ranges, with plenty of opportunity to move through the landscape at a personal pace. While the terrain is gentler than on the first day, the challenge lies in the distance covered. Heading west from Ormiston Gorge, the trail winds through the undulating foothills of the range. Morning views back toward Ormiston are a highlight, with the majestic Rwetyepme / Mt Sonder rising ahead. The route crosses tributaries of the Finke River, including Ormiston Creek — grand sandy waterways rich with plant and animal life. A high point along the trail provides sweeping views to Glen Helen Gorge in the Pacoota Range, Mt Giles, Ormiston Pound, and the confluence of the Davenport and Ormiston Creeks. After a peaceful lunch in the shade of river red gums, the trail continues along the western side of the river. Back at camp, settle in for another night of good company, warm hospitality, a delicious dinner, and a selection of beer and wine. The safari-style dining and living tent offers a comfortable and relaxed space to unwind.
Walk Time: 5-6 Hours | Distance: 14kms | Grade: Moderate

Another spectacular day of walking awaits, with exhilarating views in all directions. This is one of the more challenging sections of the trail, offering the opportunity to climb up onto the range. The reward is a stunning vantage point from the ridgeline, looking out across the Chewings Range and into a dramatic indented valley. After an initial climb, the track levels out and follows the high quartzite ridgetops that define Tjoritja / The West MacDonnell Ranges. The route continues along the ridge to Counts Point, where panoramic views extend to Mt Zeil — the highest mountain in the Northern Territory. In the afternoon, the trail descends steeply off the range through old-growth mulga forest and into Lomandra Gully, named after the distinctive Irongrass species endemic to the eastern creek gullies of the West Macs. The final stretch follows a 4x4 trail, offering a gentler pace to unwind the legs. A short transfer returns the group to camp, just in time to refuel with a hearty feast prepared by the talented guiding team.
Walk Time: 6-8 Hours | Distance: 16kms | Grade: Challenging

Today offers a more relaxing walk through Ormiston Gorge and around the stunning escarpment of Ormiston Pound. The journey begins at the mouth of the gorge and its waterhole, then continues through rolling spinifex-covered hills and rocky, flower-filled gullies to the lip of Ormiston Pound. A lookout along the way provides spectacular views of the remarkable landscape below. After descending into and crossing the pound, the trail winds slowly through the rocky gorge. A gentle climb follows the contours of the gorge wall along the aptly named Ghost Gum Walk, offering breathtaking views back into the gorge. Toward the end of the walk, a permanent pool of water often invites a refreshing wade — perfect for cooling tired feet after a long day on the trail. Lunch is enjoyed in the shade of river red gums, surrounded by one of the Northern Territory’s most iconic natural settings.
Walk Time: 5-6 Hours | Distance: 9kms | Grade: Moderate

Today is a true highlight of the track, with a climb to the peak of Rwetyepme / Mount Sonder. The morning begins early, with the first hour of walking taking place in the pre-dawn light — a quiet time to watch the landscape awaken. The trail winds steadily uphill for 3km through the shadows of eucalypt and acacia. The early start is well worth it upon reaching a saddle, the perfect spot to witness the sunrise. From the saddle, the incline continues — steady yet unrelenting — as the morning progresses. With each step, the landscape opens up further, until the summit is reached. There, breathtaking views over Tjoritja / The West MacDonnell Ranges unfold, offering a stunning panorama of Central Australia.
Distance: 16kms | Grade: Challenging

On the final day, a short drive from the campsite leads to the Ochre Pits — a significant Aboriginal quarry — to begin the day’s walk. The Larapinta Trail is approached via the Arrernte (Aranda) Walk, winding through the foothills above creek lines lined with river red gums. The striking colours of the landscape and unexpected botanical diversity offer a rich insight into the Red Centre, Arrernte culture, and Tjoritja / The West MacDonnell Ranges. As the range comes into view, a rocky pass appears ahead. Inarlanga Pass — named after the elusive nocturnal echidna — is a spectacular, narrow gorge cutting through the Heavitree Range. This section of the Larapinta Trail forms part of Section 9 and features twisted metamorphic rock formations and ancient cycads. The full length of the gorge is explored before returning to the Ochre Pits carpark. From there, a transfer heads to Ellery Creek Big Hole for a refreshing swim and a relaxing lunch. The day concludes with travel into Alice Springs, arriving around 4–5 pm, with optional hotel drop-offs available along the way.
Walk Time: 3 Hours | Distance: 8kms | Grade: Moderate